Rocket Lab, a global leader in launch services and space systems, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nikon SLM Solutions to reserve two of the company’s forthcoming ultra-large format metal additive manufacturing platforms.
The agreement marks a major step in Rocket Lab’s strategy to expand its advanced manufacturing capabilities, particularly in scalable additive production for aerospace. With the addition of Nikon SLM Solutions’ next-gen systems, Rocket Lab is on a mission to extend its current additive manufacturing capacity, aiming to achieve greater design freedom, throughput, and build volume.
“We are proud to deepen our collaboration with Rocket Lab as they continue to pioneer scalable, high-performance AM for space,” said Sam O’Leary, CEO of Nikon SLM Solutions. “Their decision to reserve our forthcoming ultra-large platform underscores a shared belief in pushing the limits of innovation—and doing so with confidence at scale.”
Nikon SLM Solutions’ new platform is designed to meet the stringent demands of industrial sectors such as aerospace and energy. It will offer the ability to produce much larger parts at high productivity, enabling manufacturers to reduce part counts, optimize structural performance, and accelerate time to market.
This partnership reinforces both companies’ long-term dedication to innovation, precision engineering, and industrial-scale additive manufacturing. By aligning with Nikon SLM Solutions, Rocket Lab is positioning itself to meet the evolving challenges of space manufacturing with cutting-edge technology.
